JP2019130319A - Method and apparatus for manipulating temperature - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a method and an apparatus for manipulating temperature of a surface.SOLUTION: A device 100 comprises a thermal adjustment apparatus such as a controller 140 in electrical communication with one or more thermoelectric materials 110, placed adjacent to the surface of skin. The device 100 generates a series of thermal pulses at the surface, and may provide an expanded thermal sensation to a user. The thermal pulse is characterized by temperature reversibility, where each pulse includes an initial temperature adjustment, followed by return temperature adjustment, over a short period of time(e.g., less than 120 seconds). The average rate of temperature change upon initiation and upon return may be in a range between about 0.1°C/second and about 10.0°C/second. In some cases, the average rate of the initial temperature adjustment is larger in magnitude than the average rate of the return temperature adjustment.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

  The present disclosure generally relates to methods and apparatus for manipulating surface temperature.

  A significant amount of energy is used annually by air conditioning and air conditioning (HVAC) systems to maintain space in a comfortable temperature range inside a home, office, building, and other enclosure. Despite the considerable amount of energy consumed, thermal discomfort remains a major cause of dissatisfaction within the building environment, mainly due to large changes in personal preferences. In many cases, the indoor space that is considered optimally adjusted appears to satisfy only about 80% of the occupants at a given time. Conventional HVAC cannot provide the spatial and temporal variations in temperature that individual occupants need to perceive comfort, concentration and productivity in their own environment.

  Existing wearable devices for temperature regulation are generally passive in that they do not generate or absorb heat and merely serve to insulate the wearer from external temperatures. Despite the rapid improvement in the field of active wearable devices, including watches, accelerometers, motion sensors, etc., there is a gap in understanding wearable devices that operate actively to enhance the wearer's thermal comfort There is.

  Methods and devices for manipulating surface temperature are provided.

  In an exemplary embodiment, a device for manipulating surface temperature is provided. The device includes at least one thermoelectric material configured and configured to be disposed proximate to the surface. The device is also a controller in electrical communication with the at least one thermoelectric material, such that the at least one thermoelectric material generates a heat pulse in a region of the at least one thermoelectric material proximate to a surface. A controller configured, wherein the heat pulse has a first average rate of change between about 0.1 ° C./second and about 10.0 ° C./second from a first temperature to a second temperature; A first temperature adjustment in the region of the at least one thermoelectric material proximate to the surface and a second average rate of change between about 0.1 ° C./second and about 10.0 ° C./second A second temperature adjustment in a region of the at least one thermoelectric material proximate to the surface from a second temperature to a third temperature, between the first temperature and the third temperature The magnitude difference is the magnitude between the first temperature and the second temperature. Less than 25% of the difference.

  In another exemplary embodiment, a method for manipulating surface temperature is provided. The method includes disposing at least one region of thermoelectric material proximate to a surface and generating a heat pulse in the region of the at least one thermoelectric material proximate to the surface. . The step of generating the heat pulse includes a first average rate of change between about 0.1 ° C./second and about 10.0 ° C./second to a surface from a first temperature to a second temperature. Adjusting the temperature in the region of the at least one thermoelectric material proximate and at a second average rate of change between about 0.1 ° C./second and about 10.0 ° C./second; Adjusting the temperature in the region of the at least one thermoelectric material proximate to the surface from a temperature of 2 to a third temperature, the magnitude difference between the first temperature and the third temperature Is less than 25% of the magnitude difference between the first temperature and the second temperature.

  In yet another embodiment, a device for manipulating surface temperature is provided. The device includes a thermal conditioner configured and configured to be positioned proximate to the surface, the thermal conditioner being in a region of the thermal conditioner proximate to the surface for a period of less than 120 seconds. Configured to generate a pulse, wherein the heat pulse is a first average rate of change between about 0.1 ° C./second and about 10.0 ° C./second from a first temperature to a second A first temperature adjustment in the region of the at least one thermoelectric material proximate the surface to a temperature and a second average rate of change between about 0.1 ° C./second and about 10.0 ° C./second A second temperature adjustment in the region of the at least one thermoelectric material proximate to the surface from a second temperature to a third temperature, wherein the first temperature and the third temperature The magnitude difference between is less than 25% of the magnitude difference between the first temperature and the second temperature There, the magnitude of the first average change rate is greater than the size of the second average change rate.

  In yet another embodiment, a method for manipulating surface temperature is provided. Placing the region of the thermal conditioning device in proximity to the surface; and generating a heat pulse in the region of the thermal conditioning device in proximity to the surface for a period of less than 120 seconds; including. The step of generating the heat pulse includes a first average rate of change between about 0.1 ° C./second and about 10.0 ° C./second to a surface from a first temperature to a second temperature. Adjusting the temperature in the region of the thermal regulator in close proximity, and at a second average rate of change between about 0.1 ° C./second and about 10.0 ° C./second, the second temperature Adjusting the temperature in the region of the thermal conditioning device proximate to the surface from a first temperature to a third temperature, the magnitude difference between the first temperature and the third temperature being the first temperature Less than 25% of the magnitude difference between the first and second temperatures, and the magnitude of the first average rate of change is greater than the magnitude of the second average rate of change.

  Various embodiments of the present disclosure present multiple advantages. Not all embodiments of the present disclosure share the same advantages, and embodiments that share the same advantages do not share those same advantages under all conditions. The various embodiments described herein can be utilized in combination and can provide further advantages.

  Further features and advantages of the present disclosure, as well as the structure of various embodiments of the present disclosure, are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

The accompanying drawings are not intended to be drawn to scale. For clarity, not every element is labeled in every drawing.
FIG. 1A shows a perspective view of a device for manipulating the temperature of a surface worn by a user, according to one set of embodiments. FIG. 1B shows a perspective view of the device of FIG. 1A. FIG. 1C shows a bottom view of the device of FIGS. 1A and 1B. FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of another device for manipulating surface temperature, according to one set of embodiments. FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of yet another device for manipulating surface temperature, according to one set of embodiments. FIG. 4A is a schematic illustration of a heat pulse generated by a device according to one set of embodiments. FIG. 4B is a schematic illustration of another heat pulse generated by a device according to one set of embodiments. FIG. 5A is a schematic illustration of yet another heat pulse generated by a device according to one set of embodiments. FIG. 5B is a schematic illustration of another heat pulse generated by a device according to one set of embodiments. FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of a sequence of heat pulses generated by a device according to one set of embodiments. FIG. 7 is an example of an electrical signal applied to a device according to one set of embodiments. FIG. 8 is an exemplary plot of relative changes in surface temperature in response to a set of voltage profiles applied to a device according to an embodiment. FIG. 9 is an exemplary plot of relative changes in surface temperature in response to another set of voltage profiles applied to a device according to an embodiment. FIG. 10 is an exemplary plot of surface temperature for a series of heat pulses generated by two devices according to an embodiment.

  Methods and apparatus for manipulating surface temperature are provided. The present disclosure relates to a device including one or more thermoelectric materials, or other suitable thermal conditioning apparatus, disposed near a surface such as a user's skin. The device may be configured to generate a continuous series of heat pulses at the surface. This heat pulse, when properly applied, will enhance the thermal sensation for the user and in some cases may provide the user with a more comfortable thermal experience than without the heat pulse.

  As further described herein, the heat pulse may include a transient reversible temperature change at the surface, where the temperature changes from an initial temperature to another temperature, followed immediately by another temperature to an initial temperature. Or return temperature changes to a temperature close to the initial temperature, all of which are in a relatively short time (eg, 120 seconds or less or shorter).

For example, the heat pulse may be from a first temperature to a second temperature (eg, 0.1-10.0 ° C. /
The first temperature adjustment at the surface (from the average rate of change in seconds) and the surface from the second temperature to the third temperature (for example, with an average rate of change of 0.1-10.0 ° C./second) A second temperature adjustment at. In that heat pulse, the magnitude difference between the first temperature and the third temperature may be less than 25% of the magnitude difference between the first temperature and the second temperature. Further, in some cases, the magnitude of the first average rate of change may be greater than the magnitude of the second average rate of change.

  Under conventional use, a thermoelectric material, or other temperature regulating device, for heating or cooling is generally operated under steady state, i.e., constant applied temperature and / or electrical signal mode, heating Or maintain the use of a long scale of cooling. For example, these conventional methods are typically used for hot or cold pack compression treatments, where it is desirable to maintain the same temperature for an extended period of time. On the other hand, the forms of the present disclosure include generating a heat pulse that is substantially reversible and transient, which can result in a continuous heat stimulus to the human skin.

  Anticipate that heating or cooling effects for an individual can be improved in some way, for example by generating a heat pulse according to a specific temperature profile, thereby varying the temperature at the surface of the person's skin. The inventor recognized. This improved thermal effect can be achieved over a shorter period of time (e.g., when the temperature gradually changes from one temperature to another at a surface over a longer period (e.g., minutes or hours). , 120 seconds or less, 30 seconds or less) When the temperature pulses reversibly back and forth on the surface, it can be more clearly perceived by the individual. That is, when exposed to a heat pulse according to embodiments of the present disclosure, the sensed intensity of this heating and / or cooling effect is much larger in magnitude, for example, the actual change in temperature that can be applied at steady state. Can be contrasted.

  By generating an appropriate series of heat pulses in human skin, with or without some variation between pulses, the skin temperature receptor can be stimulated continuously. The inventors have found that temperature receptors have a tendency to adjust in response to heating and / or cooling at the surface of the skin and become insensitive to initial irritation when accustomed to a direct environment. This is similar to the desensitization of the skin to contact with external stimuli such as clothing and other stimuli with which the sensation can become familiar.

  In particular, the inventor, as described in detail herein, applies a heat pulse having a specific combination of parameters, such as the rate of temperature change, the magnitude of temperature change, and the pulse duration, to the surface of human skin. It has been discovered that by producing, the effect of adaptive desensitization is reduced or reduced, and the sensing effect of cooling and / or heating is improved. Compared to the desensitization that can occur in a cooled or heated room, the devices described herein provide an improved thermal experience, for example, cooling and / or heating comfort, according to user preferences. A sensation can be continuously provided to the user. As described above, due to the manner in which the heat pulses are generated, when the device is operating, the user is more likely to sense a temperature at the surface of the skin as opposed to the actual magnitude of the device temperature change. You can experience the sensation.

  In certain embodiments, the thermal conditioning device includes one or more thermoelectric materials that may be placed in close proximity to the user's skin. For example, an electrical signal can be applied to the thermoelectric material to manipulate the temperature of the skin surface in the form of a single heat pulse and / or multiple successive heat pulses. However, it will be appreciated that any suitable thermal conditioning device may be employed. For example, a laser powered device, a convective heat device, or any other suitable apparatus that can generate a series of heat pulses can be employed.

  In various embodiments, individual heat pulses generated by the device can last for a period of 120 seconds or less (eg, 1-30 seconds), and a region of thermoelectric material (or a suitable thermal conditioner) near the surface. A first initial temperature adjustment from a first (initial) temperature to a second (pulsed) temperature at and a second (pulsed) temperature to a third (returned) temperature in a region near the surface A second return temperature adjustment.

  For some embodiments, the first temperature adjustment includes a heating step and the second temperature adjustment includes a cooling step. Alternatively, conversely, when the first temperature adjustment includes a cooling step, the second temperature adjustment may include a heating step. That is, a heat pulse can be characterized by an initial temperature variation followed by a return to a temperature that is substantially the same as or close to the initial temperature at the surface. For example, the magnitude difference between the first (initial) temperature and the third (return) temperature is of the magnitude between the first (initial) temperature and the second (pulsed) temperature. It may be 25% or less of the difference.

  Each of the first and second temperature adjustments may be characterized by an average rate of change between about 0.1 ° C./second and about 10.0 ° C./second. However, in some cases, the average change rate of the first temperature adjustment is larger than the average change rate of the second temperature adjustment. The time period during which the surface in the vicinity of the thermal conditioning device thermally relaxes or regulates from the second (pulsed) temperature to the third (return) temperature is from the first (initial) temperature to the second (Pulsing) It may be longer than the period of initial step-up to temperature.

  As described above, according to various embodiments, the temperature profile of the surface of the skin extends the thermal experience given to a person and is an extension of the person's sense of heating and cooling. For example, if the ambient temperature is cooler than desired, the user can enter an appropriate heating mode that allows the user to feel warmer in their environment with a series of heat pulses generated on the surface of the user's skin. You can set the device. Conversely, in an uncomfortable hot ambient environment, the user can set the device to an appropriate cooling mode that generates a heat pulse at the surface of the skin that makes the user feel cooler. For each heating and cooling mode, the user adjusts various parameters (eg magnitude of temperature change, rate of change, duration of individual pulses, steady state temperature, etc.) based on preference You can also

  As previously mentioned, existing HVAC systems generally require a significant amount of energy to heat or cool commercial buildings. Embodiments of the present disclosure are evaluated to significantly reduce energy consumption for HVAC utilization. For example, if the device described herein is prepared for 1000 office buildings, it consumes only 5 kWh per day, compared to 200 kWh required to adjust a specific area of the building by 1 ° C. Further, the methods and devices described herein may provide a user with personal control over the user's level of thermal comfort. By providing more localized control of the personal thermal comfort, it is estimated that Offirville can save up to 40% of HVAC energy utilization through a generally decreasing HVAC load.

  The term thermoelectric material is given its technically ordinary meaning, according to the thermoelectric effect (eg, called by other names such as Peltier, Thomson, and the Seabeck effect). It refers to a material in which a temperature change is generated at the surface of the material when the corresponding current) is used. Any suitable thermoelectric material may be used, some of which are described below. Although the present specification describes a thermoelectric material, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to a thermoelectric material, and other heat regulation devices may be used as appropriate.

  1A-1C illustrate an embodiment of a device 100 that includes a thermoelectric material 110 that is configured to be placed proximate to the surface of a user's skin 102 when in use. As described further below, the device may include a plurality of thermoelectric materials disposed on the surface of the skin. The device 100 may include a thermal conductor material 120 (eg, a heat sink) that is disposed on the thermoelectric side opposite the skin so as to cover the thermoelectric material 110.

  As described further below, the thermal conductor material 120 may dissipate heat to and / or from the thermal conductor material as desired. The thermal conductor material can include any suitable material, such as a metal (eg, aluminum, copper, stainless steel, etc.), a thermal conductor polymer, a porous ceramic, or other suitable material.

  However, in some embodiments, as described further below and illustrated in FIGS. 2-3, a thermal insulation material, rather than a thermal conductor material, covers the thermoelectric material so that it is opposed to the skin. It may be arranged on the side. As described herein and shown in FIG. 10, the effect of heat pulses on the surface of the skin can be enhanced by covering the thermoelectric material with a thermally insulating material.

  Of course, it is not required that the thermoelectric material be covered with a heat conductor material or a heat insulating material. For example, a heat dissipation device may be spaced from the thermoelectric material without covering the thermoelectric material, or may be disposed proximate to the thermoelectric material. Alternatively, a heat conductor material or a heat insulating material may be provided so as to cover a part of the thermoelectric material.

  Thermoelectricity may be connected to a power source 130 (eg, battery, plug-in outlet, etc.) and controller 140 to apply an appropriate signal to the thermoelectric to manipulate the temperature at the surface of the skin. In some cases, the controller may have one or more inputs and / or outputs for adjusting user control of the device in a suitable and beneficial manner.

  The device elements, ie, thermoelectric material 110, thermal conductor material 120, power supply 130 and controller 140, can each be suitably held together by a suitable band 150. In some cases, the thermoelectric material 110 can be placed comfortably and properly against or near the surface of the skin, and heat pulses generated by thermoelectricity can effectively provide a suitable thermal sensation to the user. Thus, it is preferable that the band 150 can be adjusted flexibly. However, for some embodiments, the band 150 exhibits a relatively hard mechanical behavior and provides support for the entire device. Of course, the band 150 may have any suitable structure, and in some cases may have a stylish form so that the device can be worn as a bracelet, anklet, necklace, or the like. The band may include any suitable material such as, but not limited to, metal, plastic, rubber, leather, artificial leather, or combinations thereof.

  Of course, although the thermoelectric material may be placed in the immediate vicinity of the surface of the user's skin, according to the form of the present disclosure, the thermoelectric material is not required to contact the user's skin directly. For example, an additional layer (not shown) can be placed between the thermoelectric material and the surface of the skin. For example, a conductor or insulating layer, a protective layer, a support layer (eg for further comfort), or another suitable material.

  2-3, the device 100 includes a thermally insulating material 122 that covers the thermoelectric material and is disposed on the thermoelectric side opposite the skin. As a result, the thermal insulation material 122 substantially maintains the level of heat generated by the thermoelectric material that is placed on the surface of the skin. In some cases, the thermal insulation material enhances the effect of the heat pulses generated by the thermoelectric material, as further described below. The thermally insulating material may include any suitable material, such as, for example, a polymer, plastic, elastomer (eg, rubber, neoprene, etc.), and / or another suitable material. Such insulating materials are also useful for devices that are less bulky and more flexible than, for example, a larger heat sink is placed over the thermoelectric material. Thus, by covering the thermoelectric material with a suitable insulating layer, such as neoprene, other rubber, or a cloth or textile-based material, the device can be made easier to wear. For certain embodiments, the thermoelectric material may be exposed to air without a cover or other placed material.

  In certain embodiments, device 100 may include a plurality of thermoelectric materials. For example, as shown in FIGS. 2-3, rather than a single piece of thermoelectric material, the device 100 may include a plurality of small thermoelectric materials 110A, 110B, 110C, 110D disposed in close proximity to each other. The thermoelectric materials 110A, 110B, 110C, 110D of FIGS. 2-3 may be dimensioned and arranged to adjust the bending of the device, for example, around the wrist or other parts of the body. As with watches having small rigid components (eg, metal parts) that interconnect, they can bend with respect to each other along the wristband, and the plurality of thermoelectric materials are relatively small, It can be arranged to allow flexibility and overall wearability. Thus, a relatively small thermoelectric material can be provided to accommodate the curvature of a body part. Thus, the thermoelectric material and the wristband allow the device to be adjustable and thus fit snugly to the user.

  The device can include any suitable number of thermoelectric materials. For example, the device may include two or more, three or more, four or more, five or more, ten or more, and the like thermoelectric materials. Thermoelectric materials are arranged in a grid pattern along the surface of the device, e.g., along a row, located in an irregular pattern, and have a specific shape (e.g., ellipse, circle, quadrilateral, six May be arranged in any appropriate pattern, or may be configured in another appropriate manner. Thermoelectric materials are placed in very close proximity to each other, thermoelectric clusters can generate heat pulses properly, eg heat pulses that are more concentrated on the surface, and thermoelectrics are separated from each other It is preferable to be able to elicit a more obvious response than is the case.

  In some cases, the thermally insulating materials can be in electrical communication with each other. For example, thermoelectric materials can be arranged to have electrical connections in series with each other. Thus, an electrical signal applied to one of the thermoelectric materials can be applied to the other to which the electrical material is connected. Alternatively, the thermoelectric materials may be electrically separated from each other, eg, at a suitable opportunity, size, and / or rate, as desired, eg, for individual thermoelectric materials May be stimulated independently by the controller with electrical signals as appropriate.

  In some embodiments, although not shown, the device may be incorporated into a fabric (eg, clothing). For example, in certain embodiments, a scarf, necklace, armband, wristband, or any other suitable attachment may incorporate the device as described herein. In certain embodiments, the size of the device is selected so that the device fits comfortably at the wrist, at the ankle, within the garment, within the palm of the user, and elsewhere. Also good.

  As described above, the device may include a controller in electrical communication with the thermoelectric material or other suitable thermal conditioning apparatus. In certain embodiments, the controller is configured to apply a series of electrical signals to the thermoelectric material to generate a heat pulse in the region of the thermoelectric material near the surface. In some cases, as described further below, the controller is configured to continuously generate multiple heat pulses of thermoelectric material (eg, in the region of thermoelectric material near the surface of the user's skin). Can be configured. For example, in certain embodiments, the thermoelectric material comprises at least one, at least two, at least five, at least ten, at least twenty, at least fifty, at least one hundred, at least two hundred, at least three hundred. At least four hundred or at least five hundred heat pulses can be generated in succession, and then from one to the next. Of course, the device may be configured to operate continuously. This is because there is no limitation on how many heat pulses are generated on the surface of the skin.

  In certain embodiments, as described above, the controller may be in electrical communication independently of each of the thermoelectric materials. As a result, the controller may be configured to cause two or more thermoelectric materials to generate two or more heat pulses that are independent and distinct from each other. For example, a first thermoelectric material generates a first heat pulse, a second thermoelectric material generates a second, a heat pulse, and so on. Of course, the various features of the individual heat pulses may be the same or different. In certain embodiments, individual heat pulses can be generated substantially simultaneously. On the other hand, for certain embodiments, the first heat pulse and the second heat pulse may be generated at different times. Alternatively, as described above, the controller may be configured to cause the thermoelectric material to generate a plurality of individual heat pulses in succession in any suitable pattern.

  As described herein, for certain embodiments, the controller may apply a plurality of appropriate time variations on the surface of the human skin to the thermoelectric material to enhance the temperature sensation provided to the user. It is configured to generate a temperature profile. The temperature sensation can be tailored to provide the user with a higher degree of thermal comfort and pleasure. Without trying to be bound by theory, in some cases, the use of multiple heat pulses can cause continuous thermal stimulation to produce heat related to the skin, even compared to applying thermal conditioning over a longer steady state period. It can be particularly effective to add to the receptor. As mentioned above, the use of heat pulses can provide a continuous level of stimulation, which reduces the likelihood that the heat receptor will be insensitive to thermal fluctuations. As a result, such heat pulses may allow the user to experience an enhanced cognitive thermal sensation as a whole. Thus, by appropriately modulating and / or adjusting the heat pulse, the overall thermal comfort or cognitive comfort of the user can be manipulated as desired.

  In accordance with the forms of the present disclosure, the device may be configured to generate a heat pulse having appropriate characteristics. For example, a heat pulse may include a thermal change that is substantially reversed (eg, in the region of thermoelectric material near the temperature of the skin surface) over a short period of time. In some embodiments, as described above, the thermal change is from a first initial temperature to a second pulsed temperature, a first temperature adjustment of the surface, followed by a second pulsed temperature to a third temperature. Including a second temperature adjustment of the surface to the return temperature. In some cases, as described above, the difference in magnitude between the first and third temperatures is not more than 25% of the difference in magnitude between the first and second temperatures, in harmony with the pulse indicating thermoreversibility. It's okay.

  4A-5B show schematic examples of heat pulses that in some cases may include multiple regimes. As shown, the heat pulse may include a first regime I, an optional second regime II, and a third regime III.

In various embodiments, the first regime I from the first temperature T ₁ of the second to a temperature T _2, may include an initial temperature adjustment of the surface. The optional second regime II may include a slight change in temperature at the surface from the second temperature T ₂ to the modified second temperature T ₂ ′. The third regime III may include a subsequent temperature adjustment at the surface from the _second temperature T ₂ or the modified second temperature T ₂ ′ (shown) to the third temperature T ₃ .

As shown in the schematic diagrams of FIGS. 4A-5B, the first temperature T ₁ and the third temperature T ₃ at the surface are shown as being the same, but of course the first temperature T ₁ and the _first temperature T ₃ The temperature T3 of ₃ may be different, but this is not important. For example, the third temperature T ₃ may be reduced even when the first greater than the temperature T _1, the first and differences of the third temperature may be less than 25%, it may be further reduced. Of course, the regimes described herein are merely examples of thermal pulse profiles, and may be other profiles having different behaviors and / or regimes.

As described above, for the example shown, regime II selective Secondly, the second temperature T _2, may include a second further adjustments to the temperature T _{2 'after} the correction . 4A to 5B show the (initial) second temperature T ₂ and the corrected second temperature T ₂ ′ as the same, but of course the second temperature T ₂ and the corrected _second temperature T ₂ ′. The second temperature T ₂ ′ may vary as described further below. For example, the corrected second temperature T ₂ ′ may be larger or smaller than the (initial) second temperature T ₂ . Or, a modified second temperature T ₂ ′ may occur between the selective second regimes (not at the end) so that temperature profiles within this regime may be non-linear. . That is, the maximum surface temperature between heat pulses may occur once in the middle of the selective second regime.

  As described herein, the controller may be configured to apply an electrical signal to the thermoelectric material to form a thermoelectric, ie, a suitable temperature profile at the surface of the skin. For purposes of illustration, FIGS. 4A-5B are the corresponding electrical signals (ie, the amount of voltage applied over a particular period of time, which may have any suitable profile, and are specifically shown in the figure. (Not limited to those). The electrical signal can be applied to the corresponding thermoelectric material from the controller, and variations thereof are described in more detail below.

In certain embodiments, a device (eg, a controller in electrical communication with a thermoelectric material) may be configured to generate a heat pulse that produces a thermal experience that is perceived by a user. That is, the user can feel a heated sensation (such as being heated locally at the surface to which the heat pulse is applied or at other areas of the body), at which time the body The actual temperature is generally maintained. Such heat pulses can result in an increase in temperature at the surface of the user's skin (eg, in the region of thermoelectric material near the surface of the skin) and for a short period of time (eg, 30 seconds or less, 10 seconds or less). A decrease in temperature at the surface of the skin may be included. As shown, FIGS. 4A-4B show a schematic view of a heat pulse generated at the surface of the skin, where the second temperatures T ₂ , T ₂ ′ are equal to the first temperature T 2. than ₁ and the third temperature _{T 3,} large.

Conversely, in certain embodiments, the device may be configured to generate a cooling pulse that induces a user's perceived cooling effect. In that case, similar to the heating experience, the user may feel the sensation of cooling locally or in other areas of the body, while the actual temperature of the body is roughly maintained. The cooling pulse includes a decrease in temperature at the surface of the user's skin, followed immediately by an increase in temperature. 5A-5B show a schematic view of a cooling pulse generated at the surface of the skin, where the second temperatures T ₂ , T ₂ ′ are the first temperature T ₁ and the third temperature. than T _3, small.

The temperature at the surface can fall within any suitable range. For example, first temperature _{T 1,} at room temperature (e.g., temperature) but, normothermic (e.g., resting temperature) may be used. In some embodiments, the first temperature T ₁ is about 0 ° C. or higher, about 5 ° C. or higher, about 10 ° C. or higher, about 15 ° C. or higher, about 20 ° C. or higher, and about 22 Or higher, about 23 ° C. or higher, about 24 ° C. or higher, about 25 ° C. or higher, about 27 ° C. or higher, about 29 ° C. or higher, about 30 ° C. or higher, about 32 ° C. It is above, about 34 degreeC or more, about 35 degreeC or more, about 36 degreeC or more, about 37 degreeC or more, about 38 degreeC or more, or about 40 degreeC or more. In some embodiments, the first temperature T ₁ is about 45 ° C. or less, about 40 ° C. or less, about 38 ° C. or less, about 37 ° C. or less, about 36 ° C. or less, about 35 Or less, about 34 ° C. or less, about 32 ° C. or less, about 30 ° C. or less, about 29 ° C. or less, about 27 ° C. or less, about 25 ° C. or less, about 24 ° C. It is below, about 23 degrees C or less, about 22 degrees C or less, about 20 degrees C or less, about 15 degrees C or less, about 10 degrees C or less, or about 5 degrees C or less. Combinations of the above reference ranges are also possible (eg, between about 22 ° C and about 29 ° C, between about 34 ° C and about 38 ° C, etc.). Other temperatures are possible.

The magnitude difference between the two temperatures (eg, between the first pulsed temperature and the second pulsed temperature, between the second pulsed temperature and the third return temperature) is within an appropriate range. You can get inside. In some cases, T ₂ is greater than T ₁ and the magnitude difference is determined by subtracting T ₁ from T ₂ and taking the magnitude of the difference. If T ₁ is greater than T ₂ , the magnitude difference is determined by subtracting T ₂ from T ₁ and taking the magnitude of the difference.

In an embodiment, the second (pulsed) temperature T ₂ or the modified second (pulsed) temperature T ₂ ′ (both far from the first temperature T ₁ ) and the first (initial) temperature. the size of the difference between T ₁ is between about 1 ℃ and about 10 ° C.. As mentioned above, of course, it is not required to reach the modified second temperature T ₂ ′ at the end of the optional second regime II. That is, in some cases, the modified second temperature T ₂ ′ may be characterized as a temperature within a profile farthest from the initial temperature T ₁ . In some embodiments, the magnitude difference between any of the higher second temperatures T ₂ , T ₂ ′ and the first temperature T ₁ is about 1 ° C. or more, about 1.2 ° C. About 1.4 ° C or higher, about 1.5 ° C or higher, about 1.6 ° C or higher, about 1.8 ° C or higher, about 2 ° C or higher, about 2.5 ° C or higher, about 3 ° C or higher, about 4 ° C Above, it is about 5 degreeC or more, about 6 degreeC or more, about 7 degreeC or more, about 8 degreeC or more, or about 9 degreeC or more. In some embodiments, the magnitude difference between any of the higher second temperatures T ₂ , T ₂ ′ and the first temperature T ₁ is about 10 ° C. or less, about 9 ° C. or less, About 8 ° C or lower, about 7 ° C or lower, about 6 ° C or lower, about 5 ° C or lower, about 4 ° C or lower, about 3 ° C or lower, about 2.5 ° C or lower, about 2 ° C or lower, about 1.8 ° C or lower, about It is 1.6 degrees C or less, about 1.5 degrees C or less, about 1.4 degrees C or less, or about 1.2 degrees C or less. Combinations of the above reference ranges (eg, between about 1 ° C and about 10 ° C, between about 1 ° C and about 8 ° C, between about 2 ° C and about 8 ° C, between about 1 ° C and about 7 ° C, about Between 1 ° C and about 6 ° C, between about 1 ° C and about 3 ° C, etc.) are also possible. Other temperatures are possible.

The above discussion on the possible difference in magnitude between the first and second temperatures takes into account the magnitude difference between the second temperatures T ₂ , T ₂ ′ and the third temperature T _3. Sometimes it can be applied. For example, in some embodiments, between the second temperature T ₂ or the modified second temperature T ₂ ′ (one that is further from the first temperature T ₃ ) and the third temperature T ₃ . The size difference can fall between about 1 ° C. and about 10 ° C., in some of the ranges described above, or other ranges outside the disclosed ranges.

In an embodiment, the third temperature T ₃ of the skin surface (at the end of the heat pulse) may approximate the first temperature T ₁ of the skin surface (at the beginning of the heat pulse). As mentioned above, of course, in one example, the first temperature T _{1 at} the surface of the skin before application of the heat pulse is equal to the third temperature T _{3 at} the surface of the skin after application of the heat pulse. It may be larger or smaller.

In some embodiments, the third (return) temperature T ₃ varies from the first (initial) temperature T ₁ by a relatively small amount. For example, the difference in magnitude between the first temperature T ₁ and the third temperature T _{3 on} the surface of the skin is about 10 ° C. or less, about 8 ° C. or less, about 6 ° C. or less, about 4 ° C. or less, About 2 ° C. or lower, about 1 ° C. or lower, about 0.8 ° C. or lower, about 0.5 ° C. or lower, about 0.2 ° C. or lower, or about 0.1 ° C. or lower, or outside the above range. It's okay.

In some embodiments, the third (return) temperature T ₃ may be any of the first temperature T ₁ and any of the second (pulsed) temperatures T ₂ , T ₂ ′ farther from the first temperature T _1. In contrast to the difference between the heels, it varies from the first (initial) temperature T ₁ by a small percentage. For example, the difference in magnitude between the first (initial) temperature T ₁ and the third (return) temperature T _{3 at} the surface of the skin is the first (initial) temperature T ₁ and the second ( Pulsed) 25% or less of the difference in magnitude between the temperatures T ₂ and T ₂ ′, the formula (T ₃ −T ₁ ) / (T ₂ −T ₁ ) × 100%, or the formula (T ₃ −T ₁ ) / (T ₂ ′ −T ₁ ) × 100%. Selection of two equations, the temperature difference between T ₂ and T _1, or, depending on whether larger at one the size of the temperature difference between T ₁ and T 2 _'. If the magnitude of T ₂ −T ₁ is greater than the magnitude of T ₂ ′ −T ₁ , the previous equation is used. On the other hand, if the magnitude of T ₂ −T ₁ is smaller than the magnitude of T ₂ ′ −T ₁ , the following equation is used. In some cases, the magnitude difference between the first (initial) temperature and the third (return) temperature is between the first (initial) temperature and the second (pulsed) temperature. The size difference may be about 25% or less, about 20% or less, about 15% or less, about 10% or less, about 5% or less, about 2% or less, or about 1% or less.

In certain embodiments, the first temperature and the third temperature are approximately equal (ie, a reversible heat pulse), which in some cases may occur during steady state operation of the device. Of course, the third temperature T ₃ is the time at which the temperature adjustment between the second temperatures T ₂ , T ₂ ′ and the third temperature T ₃ stops (eg, the temperature at the surface of the skin is substantially steady). When a state is reached or when a new pulse is started). For example, the controller, which is configured to generate successively a plurality of heat pulses to the thermoelectric material, in some embodiments, the third temperature T ₃ is determined when the next heat pulse to start obtain. Or, in certain embodiments, the third temperature T ₃ is the time when the temperature reaches a substantially steady state (e.g., when the third temperature is not changed about 5% or more magnitude over 5 seconds ).

  Of course, the device may adjust the temperature at the surface of the skin to vary during various regimes of heat pulses according to a suitable shape or profile. For example, at a given time during a heat pulse, the temperature profile is substantially linear, non-linear, exponential (eg, exponentially increasing, exponentially decaying), etc. A behavior may be indicated (eg, secondary, cubic), irregular (eg, according to a piecewise function), or another suitable behavior.

  With reference to FIGS. 4A-5B, in certain embodiments, the first regime I of the thermal profile may exhibit a substantially linear behavior. That is, in these embodiments, the controller can be configured to apply an electrical signal (eg, a square wave voltage) that is a substantially linear temperature profile over the first regime I. However, other temperature profiles are of course possible.

In some embodiments, the third regime III of the temperature profile may also exhibit a substantially linear behavior, as shown in FIGS. 4A and 5A. That is, in some embodiments, the heat pulse generated by the thermoelectric material, or other thermal conditioning device, is one of the second temperatures T ₂ , T ₂ ′ that is substantially linear over time, and It can be characterized by at least part of the temperature regulation at the surface of the skin, showing behavior between the _third temperature T3.

However, in some embodiments, the temperature regulation at the surface of the skin between one of the _second temperatures T ₂ , T ₂ ′ and the third temperature T ₃ is not substantially linear over time. Can show behavior. For example, as shown in FIGS. 4B and 5B, from a heat pulse between the second temperature T ₂ , T ₂ ′ and the third temperature T ₃ , at least one of the temperature adjustments on the surface of the skin is time-dependent. May exhibit a substantially exponential decay behavior. “Exponential decay” generally refers to behavior in which a parameter (eg, temperature) reasonably fits an expression such as T (t) = T ₀ e ^−λt , where T (t) Is the temperature at a given time t, T ₀ is the initial temperature, and λ is a constant.

According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the duration of individual heat pulses can vary as appropriate. The user's degree of enhanced temperature sensation and overall thermal comfort depends at least on a specific period of heat pulses, which can be tailored accordingly. That is, in some cases, heat pulses that are too long or too short may not result in the desired level of thermal sensation for the user. Period, as shown in FIG 4A~ Figure 5B, from the first temperature T ₁ to the third temperature T _3, as the time that elapses during thermal cycling on the surface of the skin, may be measured. For example, as shown in FIG. 6, the time period may be measured as the difference between a time t ₁ at the start of the first pulse and a time t ₂ at the start of the second pulse.

  In certain embodiments, a thermal conditioning device or controller configured to apply an electrical signal to a thermoelectric material may generate a heat pulse over a period of about 120 seconds or less. In one embodiment, the duration of the entire heat pulse from the initial temperature to another, pulsed temperature, and substantially back to the initial temperature (the difference between the initial and final temperatures of the pulse is ignored). Is about 90 seconds or less, about 75 seconds or less, about 60 seconds or less, about 50 seconds or less, about 45 seconds or less, about 40 seconds or less, about 30 seconds or less, about 20 seconds or less, about 15 seconds or less, about 10 seconds or less, about 7 seconds or less, about 5 seconds or less, about 4 seconds or less, about 3 seconds or less, about 2 seconds or less, or about 1 second or less. In some embodiments, the duration of the heat pulse is about 2 seconds or more, about 3 seconds or more, about 4 seconds or more, about 5 seconds or more, about 6 seconds or more, about 7 seconds or more, about 10 seconds or more, about 15 seconds or more. About 20 seconds or more, about 30 seconds or more, about 40 seconds or more, about 50 seconds or more, about 60 seconds or more, about 75 seconds or more, or about 90 seconds or more. Combinations of the above reference ranges (eg, between about 2 seconds and about 5 seconds, between about 3 seconds and about 10 seconds, between about 10 seconds and about 30 seconds, between about 10 seconds and about 60 seconds, or , Between about 15 seconds and about 90 seconds, etc.). Other ranges are possible.

  Within the range of the heat pulse, the initial temperature adjustment of the heat pulse (eg, regime I shown in FIGS. 4A-5B and FIGS. 8-9, the period during which the temperature at the skin surface undergoes a sharp, continuous increase or decrease). , Can continue for an appropriate amount of time. In certain embodiments, the initial temperature adjustment of the heat pulse is about 60 seconds or less, about 60 seconds or less, about 50 seconds or less, about 40 seconds or less, about 35 seconds or less, about 30 seconds, Less than 2 seconds, less than about 25 seconds, less than about 20 seconds, less than about 15 seconds, less than about 10 seconds, less than about 5 seconds, less than about 4 seconds, about 3 seconds May last for less than or about 2 seconds or less. The initial temperature adjustment period of the heat pulse is between about 1 second and about 30 seconds, between about 1 second and about 10 seconds, between about 2 seconds and about 5 seconds, or between about 2.5 seconds and about 4 seconds. Between seconds. Other ranges are possible.

  The temperature adjustment of the return heat pulse (eg, regime III shown in FIGS. 4A-5B and FIGS. 8-9, the period during which the temperature at the surface of the skin returns to the initial temperature and undergoes a gradual increase or decrease) You can continue for a while. In certain embodiments, the temperature adjustment of the return heat pulse is about 60 seconds or less, about 60 seconds or less, about 50 seconds or less, about 40 seconds or less, about 30 seconds or less, It may last for less than 20 seconds, less than about 10 seconds, or less than about 5 seconds. The period of temperature adjustment of the return heat pulse is between about 1 second and about 60 seconds, between about 1 second and about 5 seconds, between about 2 seconds and about 3 seconds, between about 5 seconds and about 30 seconds. , Between about 5 seconds and about 20 seconds, or between about 5 seconds and about 10 seconds. Other ranges are possible.

  The temperature adjustment of the heat pulse may indicate an appropriate rate of temperature change over time. In some embodiments, from a temperature adjustment (eg, a temperature adjustment from a first initial temperature to a second pulsed temperature, a second pulsed temperature (or a selectively modified second pulsed temperature) to a second The return temperature of 3 and the selective temperature adjustment from the second temperature to the corrected second temperature occur during a specific period.

  In some embodiments, the first temperature adjustment (eg, the thermal change on the initial pulse between the first initial temperature and the second pulsed temperature) is the second temperature adjustment (eg, the second temperature adjustment). It occurs over a shorter period of time than the pulsing temperature (or the second pulsing temperature after selective modification) and the third return temperature. That is, in an embodiment, the magnitude of the average rate of change of the first thermal adjustment at the start of the heat pulse may be greater than the magnitude of the average rate of change of the second thermal adjustment at the end of the heat pulse.

  As described herein, the magnitude of the average rate of change is the magnitude difference between the temperature limits (eg, between the first initial temperature and the second pulsed temperature for the first adjustment). , The magnitude of the difference between the second pulsed temperature and the third return temperature for the second adjustment) and calculating this magnitude difference between the temperature limits Can be determined by dividing by the time the temperature is adjusted. As an example, when applying a cooling pulse, if the first temperature adjustment period at the beginning of the pulse is 5 seconds, the first initial temperature is 28 ° C. and the second pulsing temperature is 23 ° C., the pulse The average rate of change in temperature in this part of the sample is 1 ° C./second. In the same cooling pulse example, if the second temperature adjustment period at the return of the pulse is 10 seconds, the second pulsing temperature is 23 ° C. and the third return temperature is 28 ° C., this The magnitude of the average rate of change of temperature in the part is 0.5 ° C./second.

  In various embodiments, the average rate of change of the first temperature adjustment between the first initial temperature and the second pulsed temperature at the beginning of the heat pulse is about 0.1 ° C./second and about 0.1 ° C./second. It may be in a range between 10.0 ° C./second. In some embodiments, the average rate of change of temperature adjustment at the beginning of the heat pulse is about 0.1 ° C./second or more, about 0.2 ° C./second or more, about 0.3 ° C./second or more, about 0.5 ° C. / Second or more, about 0.7 ° C./second or more, about 1.0 ° C./second or more, about 1.5 ° C./second or more, about 2.0 ° C./second or more, about 3.0 ° C./second or more, about It is 5.0 ° C./second or more, or about 7.0 ° C./second or more. In some embodiments, the average rate of change of temperature adjustment at the beginning of the heat pulse is about 10.0 ° C./second or less, about 7.0 ° C./second or less, about 5.0 ° C./second or less, about 3.0 ° C. / Sec or less, about 2.0 ° C./sec or less, about 1.5 ° C./sec or less, about 1.0 ° C./sec or less, about 0.7 ° C./sec or less, about 0.5 ° C./sec or less, about 0.3 ° C./second or less, or about 0.2 ° C./second or less. Combinations of the above reference ranges (eg, between about 0.1 ° C./second and about 10.0 ° C./second, between about 0.1 ° C./second and about 5.0 ° C./second, about 0.3 ° C. Between about 0.3 ° C./second and about 3.0 ° C./second, between about 0.3 ° C./second and about 1.0 ° C./second, between about 0.3 ° C./second and about 0.8 ° C./second, about Between 0.5 ° C./second and about 3.0 ° C./second, etc.) is also possible. Other ranges are possible.

  Upon return of the heat pulse, the average rate of change of the second temperature adjustment between the second pulsed temperature and the third return temperature can fall within the same range as that of the first temperature adjustment. . For example, the average rate of change of the second temperature adjustment upon return of the heat pulse can range between about 0.1 ° C./second and about 10.0 ° C./second. In various embodiments, the average rate of change of the temperature adjustment of the return temperature of the heat pulse is 0.1 ° C./second or more, about 0.2 ° C./second or more, about 0.3 ° C./second or more, about 0.5 ℃ / second or more, about 0.7 ℃ / second or more, about 1.0 ℃ / second or more, about 1.5 ℃ / second or more, about 2.0 ℃ / second or more, about 3.0 ℃ / second or more, It is about 5.0 ° C./second or more, or about 7.0 ° C./second or more. In certain embodiments, the average rate of change of temperature adjustment upon return of the heat pulse is about 10.0 ° C./second or less, about 7.0 ° C./second or less, about 5.0 ° C./second or less, about 3. 0 ° C / second or less, about 2.0 ° C / second or less, about 1.5 ° C / second or less, about 1.0 ° C / second or less, about 0.7 ° C / second or less, about 0.5 ° C / second or less , About 0.3 ° C./second or less, or about 0.2 ° C./second or less. In addition to the above reference range combinations, other ranges are possible.

  As described herein, the average rate of change of temperature at the beginning of the pulse may be greater in magnitude than the average rate of change of temperature at the return of the pulse. The magnitude of the average change rate of the first temperature adjustment is at least 10%, at least 20%, at least 30%, at least 40% of the first average change rate than the magnitude of the average change rate of the second temperature adjustment. , At least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, or at least 80%. In some embodiments, compared to embodiments in which the first average rate of change is less than or equal to the second average rate of temperature adjustment, the user may experience an overall increase in thermal sensation and thus an enhanced level of thermal comfort. You can experience.

  The effect of the heat pulse can be expanded by generating a heat pulse that encompasses the aforementioned range of the average rate of change of temperature and the difference in the rate of change at the location of the heat pulse, and the average user The inventor has recognized that the level of local thermal comfort for can be increased. This is in marked contrast to the use of large-scale heating or cooling systems (eg, HVAC, etc.), which are non-local, longer-term heating or cooling systems (cold packs, hot packs). , Etc.), but cannot provide the desired thermal sensation.

  As described above, the thermal conditioning device may include a controller that applies a suitable electrical signal to the thermoelectric material to generate a suitable heat pulse. The electrical signal may include appropriate steps up / down with voltage, current, etc.

In some embodiments, the controller includes a voltage source for generating an appropriate electrical signal. In some embodiments, the voltage source applies a voltage to the thermoelectric material suitable for generating a heat pulse at the surface of the user's skin. For example, as shown in FIGS. 4A-5B, the controller may be configured to apply a _first voltage V ₁ , a second voltage V ₂ , and / or a third voltage V ₃ . However, it will be appreciated that other voltages may be applied according to any suitable signal pattern. For example, instead of applying a constant voltage, the electrical signal may employ pulse width modulation, in which case the pulse width is determined by, for example, modulating (and converting) the power supplied to the device. Modulated according to an appropriate duty cycle (eg, 10-50% duty cycle). In some cases, pulse width modulation may be applied with an appropriate duty cycle having a relatively short time scale (> 100 Hz). Any suitable type of pulse width modulation may be employed.

  In some cases, whether the applied potential is positive or negative corresponds to whether a heating pulse or a cooling pulse is desired. For example, FIGS. 4A-4B correspond to a heating pulse, where the applied voltage is an increase in temperature at the surface of the skin. FIGS. 5A-5B, in contrast, correspond to cooling pulses, where the applied voltage is a decrease in temperature at the surface of the skin. However, it will be appreciated that certain heating or cooling pulses may include both positive and negative voltages applied to the thermoelectric material (eg, via pulse width modulation where the voltage pulses at an appropriate duty cycle). The average magnitude of the voltage (eg, first voltage, second voltage, third voltage) applied to the thermoelectric material at any given point may fall within an appropriate range. For example, the average magnitude of the voltage applied to the thermoelectric material is between about 0.1V and about 10.0V, between about 1.0V and about 8.0V, between about 2.0V and about 5.0V. Between about 0.1V and about 5.0V, between about 0.1V and about 1.5V, between about 0.1V and about 1.0V, between about 1.0V and about 3.0V, It may be between about 3.0V and about 8.0V, or any other suitable range. In some cases, as shown in FIGS. 4A-5B, the average magnitude of the first voltage is a sharp temperature at the surface of the skin, eg, from a first initial temperature to a second pulsed temperature. It may be greater than the individual average magnitude of subsequent voltages (eg, second voltage, third voltage, etc.) applied during the heat pulse to form a regulation. As shown further, the average magnitude of the applied step voltage can be dropped off to the second voltage V2 and the third voltage V3, for example, and the temperature reversibility of the heat pulse can be made gentler upon return. Let me.

As shown in the figure, the third voltage is given by the lack of an applied electrical signal and is inherently shown as zero. In some cases, the average magnitude of the third voltage V ₃ may be substantially non-zero, eg, the average magnitude of the first voltage V ₁ and / or the second voltage V _2. It may be smaller than the average size of. Of course, in some embodiments, a voltage (eg, a step voltage) is applied in the reverse direction (eg, a negative voltage on return after the initial positive voltage of the pulse) and the return portion of the heat pulse. A sharper temperature change in between may be drawn out. For example, in one embodiment, the first voltage V ₁ applied to the thermoelectric material is positive (eg, during a heating pulse) and the second voltage V ₂ (a sharper decrease in temperature at the surface of the skin). since the) may be negative, or vice versa in a first voltage V ₁ applied to the thermoelectric material is negative, the second voltage V ₂ may be positive.

  8-9 show multiple temperature measurements on the thermoelectric surface. As shown in these figures, the voltage applied during the second regime II of the heat pulse varies with the magnitude (shown in FIG. 8) and the duration (shown in FIG. 9). This demonstrates the possibility that the heat pulses generated at the skin surface can be controlled and varied as desired. Thus, the temperature profile of the heat pulse can be tailored to suit the user's thermal requirements. For example, as shown herein, of course, any suitable voltage profile can be applied to the thermoelectric material according to any suitable pattern.

Figure 8 is kept constant period in which the voltage V ₂ of the optional second added, the magnitude of the voltage V ₂ applied the second is varied, showing a group of waveforms. In this example, waveform 200 corresponds to an example in which the second voltage V ₂ was not applied (ie, the applied second voltage V ₂ is zero), and waveform 210 is the second voltage V ₂ being Corresponds to the largest group. As illustrated, the second voltage V ₂ is when effectively zero, as in the single or square wave V ₁ is applied, the temperature is loosened according to an exponential decay. However, when the second voltage V ₂ of the non-zero is added, whether not sharp even higher if the initial voltage V1 is applied, the temperature of the surface can be increased still. When the second voltage V ₂ is not longer applied, the temperature profile indicates the behavior of the gradual decay.

As shown in FIG. 9, the magnitude of the selective second voltage V ₂ was kept constant, and the period of the second applied voltage V ₂ was varied. In this example, the length of time between the second, voltage V ₂ and the third of the voltage V ₃ applied applied was varied between 0 seconds and about 10 seconds. As shown, the waveform 300 corresponds to an example in which the second voltage V ₂ was not applied (applied for 0 second), and the waveform 310 represents the longest period of time in which the second voltage V ₂ was in the group. It corresponds to the case where it is added (added for 10 seconds). As illustrated, the second voltage V ₂ longer lasting, temperature at the surface may continue to increase, or, may continue floating around a specific temperature range. Furthermore, the application of the second voltage V ₂ is stopped, the temperature at the surface is returned to the initial temperature attenuated.

  In some embodiments, the controller includes a current source to generate a suitable electrical signal. The current source may apply current to the thermoelectric material to generate heat pulses at the surface of the user's skin. The magnitude of the current applied to the thermoelectric material at any given point can fall within an appropriate range. In some embodiments, the magnitude of the current applied to the thermoelectric material is between about 0.1 A and about 4.0 A, between about 0.1 A and about 3.5 A, between about 0.1 A and about 0.1 A. Between 3.0A, between about 0.2A and about 2.5A, between about 0.5A and about 2.0A, between about 1.0A and about 2.0A, about 0.1A And about 1.5 A, between about 0.1 A and about 1.0 A, between about 0.5 A and about 1.0 A, between about 0.1 A and about 0.5 A, about 1 .0A and about 1.5A or any other suitable range. The electrical signal can be applied to the thermoelectric material according to any suitable form or pattern. In some embodiments, the electrical signal is applied to the thermoelectric material as one or more square waves (ie, a constant voltage / current applied over a period of time), which indicates how the electrical signal is Depending on whether it is added, it can be a specific rate of change of temperature. Or, the electrical signal may exhibit more complex behavior, for example, the electrical signal may be added as a linear ramp function, non-linear, exponential, polynomial function, piecewise function, etc.

As shown in FIGS. 4A-5B, in one embodiment, a first rectangular wave voltage is applied to the thermoelectric material to initiate a heat pulse, as shown in Regime I, and the first temperature T ₁ from the sharp linear temperature adjustment in the surface of the skin of the second to a temperature T _2. In Regime II, a second square wave voltage is applied, the magnitude of which is smaller than the magnitude of the first square wave, and the temperature T2, T2 'on the skin surface is relatively constant and only a slight change. Become. In regime III, the voltage is not applied, it is the temperature adjusted to a third temperature T _3, the temperature T ₃ of the third, only a small amount / percent, different first initial temperature T _1.

  As described herein, in various embodiments, the sensation of warming or cooling is a series of asymmetric heat pulses (rather than the average rate of change in temperature on return) at the surface of the user's skin. , Larger, heat pulses having an average rate of change in temperature at the start. In certain embodiments, steady state operation of the device may also include generating a series of heat pulses in succession. That is, during steady state operation, the temperature profile of continuously generated heat pulses may be substantially the same.

  However, in certain embodiments, it is beneficial to generate a non-steady state heat pulse that enhances the user's thermal sensation and / or thermal comfort and / or It may be appropriate to avoid sensation to temperature changes. For example, in certain embodiments, the duty cycle of the applied signal may vary. In some embodiments, the average of the baseline of the electrical signal may gradually increase, as shown in FIG. 7, to provide the user with a smooth transition to the steady state operating mode, or , May be gradually reduced as desired. During non-steady state operation, the average baseline signal may be adjusted as desired. In some cases, non-steady-state operation (ie, when the device is first started up or when more / less power is applied to thermoelectricity at a given time) is performed during a temporary period (eg, An increased amount of cooling or heating at the surface (more than the device can dissipate by design) may be allowed.

  In certain embodiments, the controller may apply an electrical signal to the thermoelectric material according to an appropriate duty cycle. The well-known duty cycle term is generally the percentage of the period during which the electrical signal is active. In various embodiments, the electrical signal applied to the thermoelectric material by the controller is between about 10% and about 50%, about 10% or more, about 20% or more, about 30% or more, about 40%. A duty cycle of about 50% or more can be exhibited. In certain embodiments, the duty cycle applied by the controller may be about 50% or less, about 40% or less, about 30% or less, about 20% or less, or about 10% or less. Combinations of the above ranges may also be used (eg, between about 10% and about 50%).

  As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the specific range of electrical signals (ie, voltage, current) is non-limiting, and the overall configuration of the device, the particular material selected (eg, thermoelectric material, thermoelectric The number of materials), the inherent resistance of the various components within the device, or other forms that may contribute to the function of the device, may vary as appropriate.

As described above, the thermal conditioning portion of the device can include one or more thermoelectric materials. In certain embodiments, the thermoelectric material is preferably for generating a rapid, reversible thermal transient signal (ie, heat pulse). Non-limiting examples of suitable thermoelectric materials, p-type and n-type doped semiconductor material, bismuth chalcogenide _{(e.g., Bi 2 Te 3, Bi 2} Se 3), lead _selenide, S i -G _e Alloy, skutterudite (eg, containing the chemical formula LM ₄ X ₁₂ where L is a rare metal, M is a transition metal, X is a metalloid), or any other suitable thermoelectric material column May be included.

  The thermoelectric material can have any suitable thickness. For example, in certain embodiments, the thickness is selected so that the thermoelectric material can be comfortably held against the wrist, arm, leg, ankle, neck, or any other suitable part of the human body. Good. In certain embodiments, the thickness of each thermoelectric material may be between about 1 millimeter and about 5 millimeters (eg, between about 1 millimeter and about 3 millimeters). Other thicknesses are possible.

  In some embodiments, each of the thermoelectric materials, or the module containing the thermoelectric material, has a maximum average cross-sectional dimension between about 10 mm and about 4 cm (eg, between about 30 mm and about 500 mm). Can do. Other average cross-sectional dimensions are possible. One skilled in the art can select an appropriate size for the thermoelectric material based on the configuration of the device.

  The thermoelectric material, or module thereof, can be provided in any suitable configuration. For example, the module may include a thermoelectric material sandwiched between ceramic plates to provide thermal conductivity to the skin surface, and in some cases for protection and support.

  Returning to FIGS. 2-3, in certain embodiments, the device may include a thermally insulating material 122 disposed over the thermoelectric material 110. In certain embodiments, in use, the thermoelectric material may be placed between the thermally insulating material and the skin surface. The thermally insulating material can be effective to maintain the level of heating (or cooling) generated by the thermoelectric material in the vicinity of the surface.

  In certain embodiments, the thermally insulating material may increase the overall magnitude of the temperature change for a given electrical signal as compared to the use of a thermally conductive material. As a result, the incorporation of a thermal insulation material can result in stronger or extended heat pulses, for example, increasing the overall sense of temperature change for the user and / or reducing power consumption by the device. obtain.

  FIG. 10 shows a series of thermal heating pulses where a thermoelectric material covered by a thermal insulating material (eg neoprene) as opposed to a thermoelectric material covered by a thermal conductor material (eg aluminum, other metal). Further, an example in which an electrical signal is applied in the same manner. For devices that incorporate thermally insulating materials, the temperature regulation regime is more apparent than for devices that incorporate thermally conductive materials. That is, the rate of temperature change is more abrupt for devices incorporating thermal insulation materials. In addition, the average magnitude of the temperature increase is also greater for devices that include a thermally insulating material.

  However, in certain embodiments, it is preferred that the device incorporate a thermal conductor material, for example, for heat dissipation of the heating or cooling that is generated. For example, it is desirable to switch quickly between heating and cooling modes. Thus, if heat can be dissipated, residual heating or cooling can be reduced.

  Any suitable dissipation unit can be used, for example, a heat sink, fan, phase change material, heat exchanger, or combinations thereof. In certain embodiments, the heat dissipation unit has a size and / or weight that can be comfortably mounted on the device and also on the wrist, as shown in FIGS. 1A-1C.

  As described above, in certain embodiments, the device includes a suitable power source. The power source can include any suitable member, such as one or more batteries, photovoltaic cells, and the like. Non-limiting examples of suitable batteries include Li polymer, Li ions, nickel cadmium, nickel hydride, etc. (eg, with a battery life of about 100 to about 100 mAh). In some cases, the battery may output a constant voltage and the controller may be configured to apply a suitable degree of pulse width modulation to generate a time varying voltage profile.

  The device can be further configured to use a relatively low amount of voltage compared to other local electronic heat sources such as HVAC systems, heaters, fans, and the like.

  In certain embodiments, the device may include one or more sensors configured to collect information in a region of thermoelectric material near the surface. Any suitable sensor may be employed, such as a temperature sensor (eg, thermistor, thermocouple), humidity and / or water vapor sensor, barometer, etc., in any suitable configuration. In certain embodiments, the device includes one or more sensors to monitor the temperature at the surface of the thermoelectric material and / or the skin. For example, if the temperature measured at the surface of the thermoelectric material and / or skin exceeds the desired temperature, or is lower than the desired temperature, the sensor sends a signal to the controller and applies the applied electrical signal. Adjustment (eg, applying a negative (or lower) voltage to lower the temperature and applying a positive (or higher) voltage to increase the temperature) may provide a suitable temperature profile.

  In some embodiments, a temperature sensor may be incorporated into the controller to monitor the controller temperature. In certain embodiments, one or more temperature sensors may be placed in direct proximity to one or more surfaces of the thermoelectric material. In some embodiments, a temperature sensor may be set to sense the temperature of the outside air. In certain embodiments, the temperature sensor may measure temperature differences across different components of the device (eg, between the surface of the skin and the thermoelectric material, between the thermoelectric material and the outside air). The temperature sensor, in certain embodiments, operates according to a feedback loop, eg, a controller that avoids excessive heating or cooling of the device and / or maintains the surface temperature within a suitable range). Can be provided and configured.

  The device may provide desired additional control characteristics, eg, appropriate with other devices / systems (eg, to control device morphology, to control / monitor temperature at the surface of the skin, etc.) A wireless function that enables simple communication may be included. Wireless devices are generally well known and in some cases may include WiFi and / or Bluetooth systems.

  While multiple forms have been described for at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, it will be appreciated that various changes, modifications, and improvements will readily occur to those skilled in the art. In certain embodiments, the device may be used for therapeutic applications. For example, the device can be used to relieve a transient heat sensation (eg, during pregnancy, menopause) or to provide thermal comfort in a humid or dry environment. These changes, modifications, and improvements are intended to be part of this disclosure and are intended to be within the spirit and scope of this disclosure. Accordingly, the foregoing description and drawings are illustrative only.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 ... Device, 102 ... Skin, 110 ... Thermoelectric material, 120 ... Thermal conductor material, 130 ... Power supply, 140 ... Controller, 150 ... Band.

Claims (76)

In devices that manipulate the temperature of the surface,
At least one thermoelectric material configured and set to be disposed proximate to the surface;
A controller in electrical communication with at least one thermoelectric material, wherein the controller causes the at least one thermoelectric material to generate a heat pulse in a region of the at least one thermoelectric material proximate to a surface; And the heat pulse is applied to the surface from a first temperature to a second temperature having a first average rate of change between about 0.1 ° C./second and about 10.0 ° C./second. A first temperature adjustment in a region of the at least one thermoelectric material proximate and a second average rate of change between about 0.1 ° C./second and about 10.0 ° C./second, A second temperature adjustment in a region of the at least one thermoelectric material proximate to a surface from a temperature to a third temperature, and a controller,
The magnitude difference between the first temperature and the third temperature is less than 25% of the magnitude difference between the first temperature and the second temperature;
device. The controller is configured to cause the at least one thermoelectric material to generate a heat pulse for a period of time less than 120 seconds;
The device of claim 1. The controller is configured to cause the at least one thermoelectric material to generate heat pulses over a period of less than 30 seconds;
The device according to claim 1 or 2. The controller is configured to cause the at least one thermoelectric material to generate a heat pulse such that the magnitude of the first average rate of change is greater than the magnitude of the second average rate of change.
The device according to claim 1. The magnitude of the first average rate of change is at least 10% greater than the magnitude of the second average rate of change;
The device according to claim 1. The device according to claim 1, wherein the first temperature adjustment occurs over a shorter period than the second temperature adjustment. The controller causes the at least one thermoelectric material to have a first average rate of change or a second average rate of change between 0.3 ° C./second and 3.0 ° C./second. Configured to generate a heat pulse,
The device according to claim 1. The controller is configured to cause the at least one thermoelectric material to generate a heat pulse such that a magnitude difference between a first temperature and a second temperature is less than 10 ° C .;
The device according to claim 1. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the magnitude difference between the first temperature and the second temperature is between 2 ° C and 8 ° C. The controller has the at least one thermoelectric material such that a magnitude difference between a first temperature and a third temperature is 10% of a magnitude difference between the first temperature and the second temperature. Configured to generate heat pulses to be smaller,
The device according to claim 1. The controller is configured to cause the at least one thermoelectric material to generate a heat pulse such that at least a portion of the first temperature adjustment exhibits a substantially linear behavior over time;
The device according to claim 1. The controller is configured to cause the at least one thermoelectric material to generate a heat pulse such that at least a portion of the first temperature adjustment exhibits a substantially exponential decay behavior over time. ing,
The device according to claim 1. The controller includes the at least one thermoelectric material;
The first temperature adjustment includes an increase in temperature from a first temperature to a second temperature in the region of the at least one thermoelectric material proximate to a surface, wherein the second temperature adjustment is close to the surface. Including a temperature decrease from a second temperature to a third temperature in the region of the at least one thermoelectric material,
Configured to generate heat pulses,
The second temperature is greater than the first temperature and the third temperature is less than the second temperature;
The device according to claim 1. The controller includes the at least one thermoelectric material;
The first temperature adjustment includes a decrease in temperature from a first temperature to a second temperature in the region of the at least one thermoelectric material proximate to a surface, wherein a second temperature adjustment is close to the surface. Including an increase in temperature from a second temperature to a third temperature in the region of at least one thermoelectric material;
Configured to generate heat pulses,
The second temperature is less than the first temperature and the third temperature is greater than the second temperature;
The device according to claim 1. The controller is configured to apply an electrical signal to the at least one thermoelectric material to cause the at least one thermoelectric material to generate a heat pulse;
The device according to claim 1. The controller includes a voltage source configured to apply a voltage to the at least one thermoelectric material or a current source configured to apply a current to the at least one thermoelectric material;
The device according to claim 1. The controller is configured to apply an electrical signal to the at least one thermoelectric material at a duty cycle between about 1% and about 50%.
The device according to claim 1. The controller applies a first rectangular wave electrical signal to the at least one thermoelectric material to generate at least a portion of a first temperature adjustment and a second rectangular wave electrical signal to the at least one thermoelectric material. In addition to generating at least part of the second temperature adjustment,
The magnitude of the first rectangular wave electrical signal is greater than the magnitude of the second rectangular wave electrical signal,
The device according to claim 1. The surface includes living skin,
The device according to claim 1. A band coupled to the at least one thermoelectric material for holding the at least one thermoelectric material against a surface;
The device according to claim 1. The at least one thermoelectric material includes a plurality of thermoelectric materials disposed proximate to each other along a surface;
The device according to claim 1. The at least one thermoelectric material is configured and set to be held proximate to a wrist;
The device according to any one of claims 1 to 21. A thermal insulation material disposed proximate to the at least one thermoelectric material;
The thermally insulating material is configured to maintain heat in a region of the at least one thermoelectric material proximate to a surface;
23. A device according to any one of claims 1-22. The at least one thermoelectric material is configured and set to be disposed between the thermal insulation material and a surface;
24. A device according to any one of claims 1 to 23. Further comprising a thermal conductor material disposed proximate to the at least one thermoelectric material;
The device according to any one of claims 1 to 24. The controller is configured to cause the at least one thermoelectric material to continuously generate a plurality of heat pulses in a region of the at least one thermoelectric material proximate to a surface;
26. A device according to any one of claims 1-25. At least one sensor disposed in the region of the at least one thermoelectric material proximate to a surface;
27. A device according to any one of claims 1 to 26. In the method of manipulating the surface temperature,
Placing at least one region of thermoelectric material proximate to a surface; and
Generating a heat pulse in the region of the at least one thermoelectric material proximate to a surface;
Generating the heat pulse comprises:
The at least one thermoelectric material proximate the surface from a first temperature to a second temperature at a first average rate of change between about 0.1 ° C./second and about 10.0 ° C./second Adjusting the temperature in the region of
The at least one thermoelectric material proximate to the surface from a second temperature to a third temperature at a second average rate of change between about 0.1 ° C./second and about 10.0 ° C./second Adjusting the temperature in the region of
The magnitude difference between the first temperature and the third temperature is less than 25% of the magnitude difference between the first temperature and the second temperature;
Method. Generate heat pulses over a period of less than 120 seconds;
30. The method of claim 28. Generate heat pulses over a period of less than 30 seconds;
30. A method according to claim 28 or 29. The first average rate of change is greater than the second average rate of change;
31. A method according to any one of claims 28-30. The magnitude of the first average rate of change is at least 10% greater than the magnitude of the second average rate of change;
32. A method according to any one of claims 28-31. The magnitude of the first average rate of change or the second average rate of change is between 0.3 ° C./sec and 3.0 ° C./sec.
33. A method according to any one of claims 28 to 32. The magnitude difference between the first temperature and the second temperature is less than 10 ° C.,
34. A method according to any one of claims 28 to 33. 35. A method according to any one of claims 28 to 34, wherein the magnitude difference between the first temperature and the second temperature is between 2 <0> C and 8 <0> C. The magnitude difference between the first temperature and the third temperature is less than 10% of the magnitude difference between the first temperature and the second temperature;
36. A method according to any one of claims 28 to 35. Adjusting the temperature in the region of the at least one thermoelectric material proximate to the surface from a first temperature to a second temperature includes generating a substantially linear temperature behavior over time.
37. A method according to any one of claims 28 to 36. Adjusting the temperature in the region of the at least one thermoelectric material proximate to the surface from a first temperature to a second temperature generates a temperature behavior with substantial exponential decay over time. including,
38. A method according to any one of claims 28 to 37. Adjusting the temperature from the first temperature to the second temperature includes increasing the temperature from the first temperature to the second temperature in the region of the at least one thermoelectric material proximate to a surface; Adjusting the temperature from the second temperature to the third temperature comprises reducing the temperature from the second temperature to the third temperature in the region of the at least one thermoelectric material proximate to the surface;
The second temperature is greater than the first temperature and the third temperature is less than the second temperature;
39. A method according to any one of claims 28 to 38. Adjusting the temperature from the first temperature to the second temperature includes reducing the temperature from the first temperature to the second temperature in the region of the at least one thermoelectric material proximate to a surface; Adjusting the temperature from the second temperature to the third temperature includes increasing the temperature from the second temperature to the third temperature in the region of the at least one thermoelectric material proximate to a surface;
The second temperature is less than the first temperature and the third temperature is greater than the second temperature;
39. A method according to any one of claims 28 to 38. Generating a heat pulse in the region of the at least one thermoelectric material proximate to a surface;
Applying an electrical signal to the at least one thermoelectric material to cause the at least one thermoelectric material to generate a heat pulse;
41. A method according to any one of claims 28 to 40. Applying an electrical signal to the at least one thermoelectric material;
Applying an electrical signal at a duty cycle between about 1% and about 50%;
42. The method of claim 41. Applying an electrical signal to the at least one thermoelectric material;
Applying a first rectangular wave electrical signal to the at least one thermoelectric material to adjust the temperature from a first temperature to a second temperature, and adjusting the temperature from the second temperature to a third temperature; Applying a second square wave electrical signal to the at least one thermoelectric material for:
The magnitude of the first rectangular wave electrical signal is greater than the magnitude of the second rectangular wave electrical signal,
43. A method according to claim 41 or 42. Applying an electrical signal to the at least one thermoelectric material;
Applying an electrical signal for a period of less than 10 seconds,
44. A method according to any one of claims 41 to 43. Placing the region of the at least one thermoelectric material comprises:
Placing the region of the at least one thermoelectric material proximate to living skin,
45. A method according to any one of claims 28 to 44. Generating a plurality of heat pulses in succession in the region of the at least one thermoelectric material proximate to a surface;
47. A method according to any one of claims 28 to 46. In devices that manipulate the temperature of the surface,
Including a thermal conditioner configured and configured to be disposed proximate to the surface;
The thermal conditioning device is configured to generate a heat pulse over a period of less than 120 seconds in the region of the thermal conditioning device proximate to the surface;
The heat pulse is proximate to the surface from a first temperature to a second temperature, with a first average rate of change between about 0.1 ° C./second and about 10.0 ° C./second. A first temperature adjustment in a region of at least one thermoelectric material and a second average rate of change between a second temperature between about 0.1 ° C./second and about 10.0 ° C./second from a second temperature. A second temperature adjustment in the region of the at least one thermoelectric material proximate to the surface to a temperature of 3;
The magnitude difference between the first temperature and the third temperature is less than 25% of the magnitude difference between the first temperature and the second temperature, and the first average change The magnitude of the rate is greater than the magnitude of the second average rate of change,
device. The thermal adjustment device
Thermoelectric materials,
48. The device of claim 47, comprising a controller configured to cause the thermoelectric material to generate heat pulses. The thermal conditioning device is configured to generate heat pulses over a period of less than 30 seconds;
49. A device according to claim 47 or 48. The thermal adjustment device is configured to generate a heat pulse such that the magnitude of the first average rate of change is at least 10% greater than the magnitude of the second average rate of change. Yes,
50. A device according to claims 47-49. The thermal adjustment device generates a heat pulse such that the magnitude of the first average change rate or the second average change rate is between 0.3 ° C./second and 3.0 ° C./second. Configured as
51. A device according to any one of claims 47-50. The thermal conditioner is configured to generate a heat pulse such that the magnitude difference between the first temperature and the second temperature is less than 10 ° C .;
52. The device according to any one of claims 47 to 51. The thermal conditioner is adapted to reduce the magnitude difference between the first temperature and the third temperature to be less than 10% of the magnitude difference between the first temperature and the second temperature. Configured to generate pulses,
53. A device according to any one of claims 47 to 52. The thermal conditioning device is configured to generate a heat pulse such that at least a portion of the first temperature regulation exhibits a substantially linear behavior over time;
54. A device according to any one of claims 47 to 53. The thermal conditioning device is configured to generate a heat pulse such that at least a portion of the first temperature regulation exhibits a substantially exponential decay behavior over time;
55. A device according to any one of claims 47 to 54. The thermal adjustment device
The first temperature adjustment includes an increase in temperature from a first temperature to a second temperature in a region of the thermal adjustment device proximate to a surface, wherein the second temperature adjustment is close to the surface of the thermal adjustment device To include a decrease in temperature from the second temperature to the third temperature in the region of
Configured to generate heat pulses,
The second temperature is greater than the first temperature and the third temperature is less than the second temperature;
56. A device according to any one of claims 47-55. The thermal adjustment device
The first temperature adjustment includes a decrease in temperature from a first temperature to a second temperature in a region of the thermal adjustment device proximate to a surface, wherein the second temperature adjustment is the heat adjustment device proximate to the surface. Including an increase in temperature from a second temperature to a third temperature in the region of
Configured to generate heat pulses,
The second temperature is less than the first temperature and the third temperature is greater than the second temperature;
57. The device according to any one of claims 47 to 56. The surface includes living skin,
58. A device according to any one of claims 47 to 57. A band coupled to the thermal conditioning device for holding the thermal conditioning device against a surface;
59. A device according to any one of claims 47 to 58. The thermal conditioning device is configured to generate a plurality of heat pulses continuously in a region of the thermal conditioning device proximate to a surface,
60. A device according to any one of claims 47 to 59. Further comprising at least one sensor disposed in a region of the thermal conditioning device proximate to a surface;
61. A device according to any one of claims 47-60. In the method of manipulating the surface temperature,
Placing the region of the thermal conditioning device in proximity to the surface; and
Generating a heat pulse for a period of time shorter than 120 seconds in the region of the thermal conditioning device proximate to a surface;
Generating the heat pulse comprises:
In the region of the thermal conditioning device proximate to the surface from a first temperature to a second temperature with a first average rate of change between about 0.1 ° C./second and about 10.0 ° C./second. Adjusting the temperature; and
In the region of the thermal conditioning device proximate to the surface from a second temperature to a third temperature at a second average rate of change between about 0.1 ° C./second and about 10.0 ° C./second. Adjusting the temperature, and
The magnitude difference between the first temperature and the third temperature is less than 25% of the magnitude difference between the first temperature and the second temperature, and the magnitude of the first average rate of change is large. Is greater than the magnitude of the second average rate of change,
Method. The thermal conditioning device includes a thermoelectric material;
64. The method of claim 62. Generate heat pulses over a period of less than 30 seconds;
64. A method according to claim 62 or 63. The magnitude of the first average rate of change is at least 10% greater than the magnitude of the second average rate of change;
The method according to any one of claims 62 to 64. The magnitude of the first average rate of change or the second average rate of change is between 0.3 ° C./sec and 3.0 ° C./sec.
66. A method according to any one of claims 62 to 65. The magnitude difference between the first temperature and the second temperature is less than 10 ° C.,
67. A method according to any one of claims 62-66. 68. A method according to any one of claims 62 to 67, wherein the magnitude difference between the first temperature and the second temperature is between 2 [deg.] C and 8 [deg.] C. The magnitude difference between the first temperature and the third temperature is less than 10% of the magnitude difference between the first temperature and the second temperature;
69. The method according to any one of claims 62 to 68. Adjusting the temperature in the region of the thermal conditioning device proximate to a surface from a first temperature to a second temperature includes generating a substantially linear temperature behavior over time.
70. A method according to any one of claims 62 to 69. Adjusting the temperature in the region of the thermal conditioning device proximate to a surface from a first temperature to a second temperature includes generating a temperature behavior of substantial exponential decay over time.
71. A method according to any one of claims 62-70. Adjusting the temperature from the first temperature to the second temperature includes increasing the temperature from the first temperature to the second temperature in a region of the thermal conditioning device proximate to a surface, the second temperature Adjusting the temperature from to a third temperature comprises reducing the temperature from the second temperature to the third temperature in the region of the thermal conditioning device proximate to a surface;
The second temperature is greater than the first temperature and the third temperature is less than the second temperature;
72. The method according to any one of claims 62-71. Adjusting the temperature from the first temperature to the second temperature includes decreasing the temperature from the first temperature to the second temperature in a region of the thermal conditioning device proximate to a surface, the second temperature Adjusting the temperature from to a third temperature includes increasing the temperature from the second temperature to the third temperature in the region of the thermal conditioning device proximate to a surface;
The second temperature is less than the first temperature and the third temperature is greater than the second temperature;
72. The method according to any one of claims 62-71. Arranging the region of the thermal conditioning device comprises:
Placing the region of the thermal conditioning device in proximity to live skin,
74. A method according to any one of claims 62-73. Generating a plurality of heat pulses in an area of the thermal conditioning device proximate to a surface;
75. A method according to any one of claims 62 to 74. Continuously generating a plurality of heat pulses in a region of the thermal conditioning device proximate to a surface;
76. A method according to any one of claims 62 to 75.

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